OREANDA-NEWS. Holland America Line is strengthening its presence in Mexico for the 2016-17 season by increasing the number of departures and returning a larger Vista-class ship to the region. From October 2016 through February 2017, the 1,916-guest ms Westerdam will sail a series of 13 seven-day cruises roundtrip from San Diego, California, including two special holiday departures in December.

To kick off the season, the ship will depart from Vancouver, British Columbia, Oct. 18, 2016, on an 11-day itinerary. Boasting sun-kissed skies, golden beaches and azure seas, the Mexican Riviera is an ideal getaway for travelers looking to visit a destination that’s rich in culture, color and cuisine.

“We’re looking forward to the 2016-17 Mexico cruise season, and with increased sailings and a larger ship we’ll have the opportunity to show more of our guests what makes Mexico such a vibrant destination,” said Orlando Ashford, president of Holland America Line. “Mexico has it all, and with convenient roundtrip San Diego cruises, we know that these itineraries are going to attract a lot of cruisers looking for a unique warm-weather vacation.”

An 11-Day Mexican Riviera Cruise Opens the Season

Departing Oct. 18, ms Westerdam sails from Vancouver to San Diego on an 11-day Mexican Riviera itinerary. The ship visits Santa Barbara, California, before calling at San Diego the first time, then continues on to make calls at the Mexican ports of Cabo San Lucas, Mazatl?n and Puerto Vallarta before returning to San Diego at the end of the voyage. Guests who want to take a seven-day portion can embark Oct. 22 in San Diego following the call at Santa Barbara.

Seven-Day Mexican Riviera Itinerary Sails Roundtrip from San Diego

For the remainder of the season, Westerdam sails a series of 13 seven-day Mexican Riviera cruises where guests will get a great feel for the country and all that it has to offer. Sailing roundtrip from San Diego through Feb. 7, 2017, the itinerary calls at Cabo San Lucas, Mazatl?n and Puerto Vallarta. Three days at sea allow plenty of time to relax and explore the abundance of amenities offered on board.

Popular Ports Highlight the Itinerary

During the sail into San Diego, guests are treated to scenic cruising past Coronado Island, Cabrillo National Monument and Point Loma. Westerdam conveniently docks near downtown, so guests can walk on Coronado Island’s sandy beach, take in the Old Town or have a wild time at the famous San Diego Zoo, time permitting.

At the tip of the Baja Peninsula, Cabo San Lucas is one of Mexico’s most recognizable ports of call thanks to its unique rock arch formation. Whether lounging on a powdery beach, exploring on a four-wheel-drive adventure or taking to the sea in search of a gray whale, guests will find Cabo (as it is affectionately called) offers something for every type of traveler.

Mazatl?n, known as the “Pearl of the Pacific,” is where the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean meet, creating an incredible sportfishing environment. It’s also a haven for watersports, historic sites and nature. Locals treat visitors like amigos, making it a coastal city with plenty of allure.

Puerto Vallarta has it all — from gorgeous beaches and activities galore to chic shops and stylish restaurants. The quaint Old Town greets visitors with an enticing mix of red-tiled buildings, cobbled streets and bustling open markets, while eco-adventures show off Mexico’s flora and fauna in this paradise on earth.